Signaalraamides

Signaalraamides, also known as signal frames, are mechanical signaling devices historically used in railway operations. They served as the central control point for points and signals on a railway line, allowing a signalman to manually operate them from a single location. A signaalraamides typically consisted of a series of levers, each connected to a specific railway switch or signal. The levers were often painted distinct colors to help the signalman identify them quickly.

The operation of a signaalraamides was a critical part of railway safety. By pulling or pushing a lever, the signalman would change the position of points, guiding trains onto the correct tracks, or set signals to either stop or proceed. Interlocking mechanisms were a crucial feature of signaalraamides, preventing the signalman from setting conflicting routes or signals that could lead to a dangerous situation. For example, an interlocking system would ensure that a signal could not be cleared to allow a train to proceed unless the relevant points were correctly set and locked.

Signaalraamides were essential during the era of mechanical signaling. While largely replaced by more modern electrical and computerized systems, they represent an important stage in the evolution of railway signaling technology and safety. The design and operation of signaalraamides required skill and vigilance from the signalman, who was responsible for the safe passage of trains through their controlled section of the line. The levers in a signaalraamides were often arranged in a specific sequence, and their operation had to be performed in a precise order to ensure safety.